Access to affected areas are difficult. The Warao settlements are located on the edge of the Orinoco River, eight hours’ travel from the regional capital Tucupita.

“Sometimes getting to a sick person is impossible. The boats do not have fuel, and despite the seriousness of the situation the silence of the authorities has prevailed,” said Obdola.

Venezuela’s Health Minister Luis Loez said Tuesday on Twitter that the government of President Nicolas Maduro is fine-tuning details for the launch of a national vaccination plan for diphtheria, measles and yellow fever.